Abstract: To explore a simple and high yield method for preparing DNA suitable for RAPD analysis, trace fresh and dried leaves of Camellia japonica L. were used as materials. Moreover, the improved CTAB, SDS and Triton X-100 methods without using liquid nitrogen were compared. The efficiencies of different DNA extraction methods, the effects of material preservation and material amounts on DNA qualities were compared based on the absorbance spectrum and ratio of absorbance at 230 nm, 260 nm and 280 nm by Ultraviolet Spectrophotometry. Results showed that dried materials were more suitable for DNA extraction than fresh materials. The improved CTAB protocol for isolating DNA from dried leaf tissues gave satisfied results, with the ratio of A260/A280 ranged from 1.595 to 1.736. Furthermore, the DNA yield reached 230 to 295 μg per gram of leaf. Finally, clear amplified bands were detected by RAPD-PCR. High quality and high yield genomic DNA could be prepared from 100 mg dried leaves of Camellia japonica L., an increase in materials leads to the increased in DNA amount, however, impurity was also increased.

Key words: DNA extraction, RAPD, Camellia japonica L., Improved, CTAB protocol